Assistant Professor Adam Storts, M.S., PA-C, with the MSU PA Medicine Program is leading a student-focused research collaboration with Old Dominion University’s Health Sciences Department along with several other institutions that is aimed at improving student success in Physician Assistant (PA) education.
This study examines how undergraduate student academic performance influences outcomes once a student begins PA school. Drawing on data from a total of 524 subjects and a collection of more than 33,000 individual data points, this research analyzes prior coursework, including subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, which often present challenges for PA students. By studying these trends, this research hopes to allow all PA faculty to identify may allow faculty across PA programs the patterns in individual students’ applications that warn of potential academic risks to allow for interventions, support, and improved educational outcomes.
Professor Storts, who also serves as the Admissions Coordinator for the MSU PA Programs, believes this research has the potential to better prepare students for success and enhance the overall effectiveness of PA training.
— Written by Zainab Faessal, PA Medicine Curriculum Assistant